AEK to face CSKA Moscow

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AEK were handed an unfavorable draw in the UEFA Champions League third qualifying round with Russian giants CSKA Moscow. Although the Kitrinomavri avoided Ajax, CSKA was theoretically the second toughest possible opponent from the seeded sides.

AEK will host the Russian side in the first leg at the OAKA stadium on July 25 or 26 before traveling to Moscow for the second leg. CSKA Moscow will have an advantage over AEK seeing that they are more prepared in training due to the fact that the Russian Premier League is set to begin this weekend.

CSKA Moscow will be the favorites to advance, however the Russian side will not strike fear into the hearts of the AEK players. With quality play, AEK can surely contest a place in the UEFA Champions League playoff qualifying round. If the Enosis come up short against CSKA Moscow, they will be demoted to the UEFA Europe League playoff qualifying round.